Smoke Free Nebraska
Secondhand smoke is the combination of smoke exhaled by a smoker and the smoke from a burning cigarette, pipe or cigar. Nonsmokes who breathe the smoke from other people's cigarettes can suffer serious illnesses as a result of their exposure. According to the US Surgeon General, "there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be harmful."
Secondhand smoke migrates. Air quality studies in apartment buildings show that anywhere from 5% to 60% of the air in apartment units moves from other units in the building. Secondhand smoke cannot be controlled by ventilation or air cleaning.
CDC Secondhand Smoke Fact Sheet
Nebraska Tobacco Quitline
World Health Organization Tobacco Free Initiative
National Apartment Association Clearing the Air Article
A 2005 survey of Douglas County residents found over 70 percent would prefer a non-smoking building. 38 percent of those renters would even pay more to live in a smoke-free building.
The Nebraska Clean Air Act has established that certain areas including restrooms, hallways, elevators and entry or exit areas are already smoke-free in all multi-unit housing facilities. While protections from exposure to secondhand smoke are common in places where individuals work, eat and play, many are still exposed to the dangers of secondhand smoke where they live. In any multi-unit housing facility, air is shared and contaminants can travel throughout the building. A smoke-free policy can decrease the risks of secondhand smoke as well as decrease the risk of accidental fires and create a cleaner environment.
Smoke-free policies can help to save money, reduce the risk of fire or property damage, reduce legal liability and attract renters. Incorporating a smoke-free policy will lower turnover costs and protect property from damage. As a property owner, less time will be spent dealing with smoking-related complaints. Smoke-free is a great selling point to draw in potential renters by promoting the amenity.
To implement a smoke-free policy, develop a plan. This plan may include surveying residents to determine their preferences. Rental agreements, lease language, or house rules should clearly state the policy and consequences. Inform tenants and communicate the policy through meetings, in person and in writing. A strong implementation plan will help improve compliance. Contact us to be listed on this website!
Crete- Housing Authority (Carol Murphy) 402-826-2678
Beatrice- Beach Rentals
402-228-2711
Beatrice- Karl (2 Duplex)
402-440-8887
Public Health Solutions
975 East Hwy 33 Suite 1
Crete, NE 68333
kbuser_phsneb.org
Tel: (888) 310-0565
Renters and property owners are encouraged to contact us directly with any questions. This website is updated twice a year to provide accurate contact information. For more recent information, contact Kim at Public Health Solutions. Thank you!
